A denture is a removable dental appliance replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissue. They are made to closely resemble your natural teeth and may even enhance your smile.

There are two types of dentures - complete and partial dentures. Complete dentures are used when all of the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. A Partial denture not only fills in the spaces created by missing teeth, it prevents other teeth from shifting.

A Complete denture may be either “conventional” or “immediate.” A conventional type is made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed, usually taking 4 to 6 weeks. During this time the patient will go without teeth. Immediate dentures are made in advance and immediately placed after the teeth are removed, thus preventing the patient from having to be without teeth during the healing process. Once the tissues shrink and heal, adjustments will have to be made.

Dentures are very durable appliances and will last many years, but may have to be remade, repaired, or readjusted due to normal wear.

Reasons for dentures:

Complete Denture - Loss of all teeth in an arch.

Partial Denture - Loss of several teeth in an arch.

Enhancing smile and facial tissues.

Improving chewing, speech, and digestion.

What does getting dentures involve?

The process of getting dentures requires several appointments, usually over several weeks. Highly accurate impressions (molds) and measurements are taken and used to create your custom denture. Several “try-in” appointments may be necessary to ensure proper shape, color, and fit. At the final appointment, your dentist will precisely adjust and place the completed denture, ensuring a natural and comfortable fit.

It is normal to experience increased saliva flow, some soreness, and possible speech and chewing difficulty, however this will subside as your muscles and tissues get used to the new dentures.

You will be given care instructions for your new dentures. Proper cleaning of your new dental appliance, good oral hygiene, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new dentures.

I hated my smile. I was very self conscious, but Dr. Episcopio changed that for me. I get compliments all the time and I love my new smile. Thank you Dr. Episcopio and his amazing office team!

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Alison Groia

Teeth...the focus of my smile - they were my embarrassment, my hindrance. I'd cover my mouth when I'd laugh or smile.
Teeth...NOW - my teeth are my asset! Dr. Episcopio have me back my smile, my love of laughter! Dr. Episcopio gave me the teeth that I am proud of showing, a new me! I am forever grateful to him and his staff, and as I say that I'm smiling wide!!

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Alison Wright

Dr. Episcopio has been my dentist for some time now. He had spoken to me about veneers in the past but I always put it off. Finally 6 months before I turned 50 I made the decision to go ahead with it. Wow! I wish I would have made that decision a long time ago. I had learned to smile with my mouth closed or just not at all. My front teeth definitely made me look older than I wanted to admit. I have had many compliments on my appearance since then.
When a child has a secret, they have that little smile. Right now, I have that smile, because I have a secret that I would like to share. Make an appointment with Dr. Lenny. He's the best around. I can tell you that from the bottom of my heart to the smile on my face. His staff is also the best you will find. Caring, compassionate and willing to work with you to make it happen. So visit their office and remember.........SMILE!